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Ventura Turns Down Extension From White Sox

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 13: New manager Robin Ventura #23 of the Chicago White Sox shares a laugh with some fans before the opening day game against the Detroit Tigers at U.S. Cellular Field on April 13, 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)Robin Ventura. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

(CBS) – After one full season as manager, Robin Ventura has turned down a one-year contract extension from the White Sox.

Ventura, who is under contract through the 2014 season, said Wednesday the team initiated extension talks, but his focus is solely on the 2013 season.

“It’s flattering and it was nice and everything, but in talking to (general manager Rick Hahn), we have two more years to do this,” Ventura said. “We have good communication. Everything is fine. This is my contract. I was the same way as a player: I’ll worry about it at the end of it.”

In his first season as manager, Ventura coached the White Sox to an 85-77 record and second place finish in the American League Central, though the team spent the majority of the season in first place.

Ventura was adamant that this is not a negotiating ploy – he simply doesn’t want to look too far ahead.

“In two years, I want them to think I’m still the right guy for the job,” Ventura said. “It wasn’t anything that was a big deal. I’m not holding out for anything or disappointed and not wanting to stay here. … I’m not worried about trying to extend anything right now. I’m worried about this team and this spring training more than I’m worried about 2015.”

So, does Ventura see himself being a coach for years to come?

“I don’t know about being a ‘lifer,'” he said. “There’s a time and a right place for the person that needs to be there to be there. We’ll see how that goes. For right now, I’m very happy with what I’m doing.”